A £4m facelift is expected to breathe new life into two blocks of crime-ridden flats.

For many years, Melsonby Court and Prior Court in central Billingham have been linked with crime, drugs and deprivation. In March, Richard Petty was murdered at his seventh floor Melsonby Court flat over a drugs dispute.

Tristar Homes, which manages the two buildings, is hoping to improve conditions for law-abiding tenants by undertaking a massive external and internal redevelopment project.

Proposed improvements will include new fitted kitchens and bathrooms for all 132 residents, double glazing throughout, new insulation as well as demolition of the car park and CCTV installation.

“There is a certain stigma attached to the buildings and we had to ask whether or not we keep them or demolish them,” he said.

“These buildings are almost like a little town in themselves and there is still a demand for them. Once complete they will be just as good as our other town centre flats.

“But it’s not just about making the flats nicer and improving the buildings. We have done a lot of work with the residents and have asked them to sign agreements to respect their neighbours.

“Over the last two years we have probably evicted four tenants while a number have also left thanks to the police. We have been a lot more sensitive about the type of people we are putting in there. We still have some more minor anti-social behaviour issues but we won’t rest until we get every resident toeing the line.”

External work on the building will include cladding and repainting, as well as double glazing installation.

“Appearance-wise, the buildings will look a lot better and the work will also mean the flats are warmer and more comfortable for residents,” said Mr Horrocks.

“The foyer areas are being extended in both buildings whilst the communal areas will be redecorated with better lighting and better floor covering to make them warmer and more welcoming.”

The proposed work, expected to start next month and take nine months to complete, is among the final projects in Tristar Homes’ £163m refurbishment programme under the Government’s Decent Standard scheme.